John-David Randolph Hilty, 44
June 18,1975-March 30,2020
SFC John-David Randoph Hilty (J-D) was born on June 18, 1975. in Eugene, Oregon. He grew up in Bowie, Md, and graduated from Riverdale Baptist in Largo, Md, where he excelled as a multi-sport athlete in football, basketball, and baseball.
J-D joined the US Army on April 30,1999 as a combat engineer. In over 20 years of military service, J-D served with distinction and obtained the rank of SFC- E7. He moved up pretty fast and was very committed to his job. SFC Hilty was well loved and respected by peers and subordinates alike. His soldiers attest to his professionalism, compassion, strength of character, and love for his family and country.
SFC Hilty deployed 6 times, including two tours in Iraq and four tours in Afghanistan. SFC Hilty also served in South Korea and Germany. SFC Hilty's numerous awards include 2 Bronze Star Medals, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Korean Defense Service Medal, and campaign medals from Iraq and Afghanistan.
J-D is survived by his wife Cheri Hilty, of Copperas Cove, Tx; his daughter Isabella Sequenzia, son Jordan Hilty, and his mother, Sharon Hilty of Ocean City, Md.
SFC John-David Hilty is the son of Sharon Hilty. J-D is predeceased by his father, David Hilty of CA and grandparents, Randolph and Ruth (Libby) Hambrick and John and Mona Hilty of CA.
J-D was a life long sports fan and never missed a Washington Redskin or Boston Celtics game. His favorite Celtic player was Brian Scalabrine. J-D also encouraged a love of sports in his children, attending EVERY gymnastic and cheer practice with Isabella, and enjoying instructing Jordan in swimming, basketball and other sports. Family time was very important to J-D, and he was at his happiest sitting with family and friends at a backyard cook out or get together. J-D's brilliant smile lit up every room. He could make you laugh and make you cry the same way. He loved dancing and having fun. He attended every daddy/daughter dance with Bella and you could fine him and Cheri on the dance floor every time.
SFC John-David Hilty passed away on March 30, 2020, in Erbil, Iraq where he served in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. He will surely be missed by many.